We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Ovarian toxic effects of micro- and nanoplastics (Review)
Original title: Ovarian toxic effects of micro‑ and nanoplastics (Review)
Summary
Tiny plastic particles called microplastics and nanoplastics have been found in the fluid surrounding eggs in women's ovaries, and this review pulls together existing research on how these particles may harm female fertility. Studies suggest these plastics can damage cells, disrupt hormones, and interfere with egg development, potentially reducing reproductive capacity—though most evidence so far comes from animal and lab studies rather than direct proof of harm in humans. Given how widespread plastic pollution has become, understanding these risks matters for anyone concerned about long-term fertility health.
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) have become widespread contaminants with notable impacts on reproductive health.MNPs have been found in human specimens, including follicle fluid, causing concerns regarding their negative impact on female fertility.The present review aimed to comprehensively examine the ovarian deleterious impacts of MNPs, and to analyze their toxicological mechanisms, impact on folliculogenesis and oocyte quality, transgenerational effects and influencing factors.Previous evidence suggests that MNPs can trigger oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, disruption of endocrine function, programmed cell death, endoplasmic reticulum stress, membrane structural damage, epigenetic modifications and DNA lesions in the ovary, resulting in impaired folliculogenesis, disrupted steroidogenesis and reduced reproductive capacity.The present review emphasized the impact of the MNP polymer type, size and surface characteristics on ovarian reproductive toxicity, and highlights some knowledge gaps that require attention, providing a reference for deeper understanding and mitigation of MNPs-induced ovarian toxicity.Contents 1. Introduction 2. Ovarian toxicity induced by MNPs 3. Influencing factors of MNPs-induced ovarian toxicity 4. Mechanisms of ovarian toxicity induced by MNPs 5. Challenges and prospects 6. Conclusions